frequently asked questions

• What is yoga?

Yoga is union. Yoga practices include a variety of poses, breathing techniques, and meditation.

• What is Jivamukti yoga?

Jivamukti yoga is a path to enlightenment through compassion to all beings. Founders Sharon Gannon and David Life have been recognised as inovators by Yoga Journal and TIME magazine. They are pioneers in teaching yoga as spiritual activism/activation. Their passion on the focus of the original meaning of the word "asana" as seat. connection, and relationship to the earth is as practical as it is radical in this time of global conscousness-shift. The method places emphasis on asana practice with a focus on vinyasa as well as alignment.

Jivamukti has 5 tenets: Ahimsa (non-violence), Bhakti (devotion), Meditation, Nada (sound/music) and Scripture

• Why practice yoga?

Physical benefits of yoga include increased flexibility, strength, a better functioning organ system, an increased ability to relax, better sleep and an overall sense of vitality.  Spiritual benefits include cultivating a more peaceful way to be in the world through the practice of letting go.

• Do I need to be flexible and/or strong to do yoga?

No, though this is a common question asked by new practitioners. Yoga is not about performing the postures so that they look perfect, but rather performing the postures with perfect sincerity. With patience and time, flexibility and strength are natural results. “Do your practice and all is coming” -Patthabi Jois

• Can I start yoga at any age?

Yes! Yoga is truly a practice for all ages and is modified to accommodate any age and level of fitness. In fact, some of today’s most influential, not to mention physically fit yogis, are of advanced age. Not Convinced? Take a moment to search the Internet clips of Dharma Mittra and Bette Calman.

• What style of yoga do you teach?

I teach Jivamukti Yoga. I also draw influence from practicing and studying other styles including Iyengar, Baptiste, Yin, Ashtanga, and Kundalini yoga and from my training as a dancer. As an instructor, I will encourage you on your journey toward a personal connection with yoga.

• Where and with whom have you studied?                                                                                                                                                                                                                         

I completed the Jivamukti Yoga 300-hour teacher training in New York with founders Sharon Gannon and David Life. Previously, I receiving my 200-hour teacher training and international certification at Samadhi Yoga in Sydney, Australia. I am a registered at the 500 hour level with Yoga Alliance.

• What distinguishes you as a yoga teacher?

I have a Bachelors Degree in Health Science that provides me with expertise in Anatomy & Physiology, injury prevention, nutrition, and wellness coaching.  Additionally, I have a degree in dance and currently dance professionally. 

• Why do you to teach yoga?

Teaching is an organic extension of my personal life-trek and provides me with the occasion to give back that which I have received. I don’t feel like I chose to teach yoga, but that it chose me. I am grateful to share my enthusiasm in a manner that is relatable to all. I will meet you where you are while encouraging you to challenge your assumed physical limitations so that you can transcend your perceived mental barriers.

• Who has influenced your path as a teacher? 

Jivamukti founders, Sharon Gannon and David Life have deeply influenced my path as a teacher and as a human.  Additionally, I derive inspiration from those who have profoundly touched my life, those who regardless of their interests do what they do with passion, honesty, and love.  

• Personally, how has yoga impacted you life?

The many lessons learned through yoga can be reduced to the realization that I spent years struggling, literally and figuratively tying myself into knots for the understanding that the critical processes of yoga is undoing. The paradox is that to experience this undoing we have to participate in the entanglements of life, and as yogis the physical binds of asana practice in order to transcend the confines of the material world. Committing to yoga practice is simultaneously an act of committing to life, reminding us to be present for it, breath by breath. With this shift in perspective, lessons learned on my mat are swiftly and perceptively transformed into life lessons.  Jai!